Financial Crime World

SUDAN: CRACKDOWN ON FORMER REGIME LEAVES ROOM FOR PRIVATE SECTOR TO FILL VACUUM

Khartoum, Sudan - The current situation in Sudan is chaotic and opaque, with reports of armed looting and kidnapping in the northern state. The once-powerful former regime’s institutions have been dismantled, but their networks remain entrenched.

CRACKDOWN ON FORMER REGIME LEAVES VACUUM FOR PRIVATE SECTOR

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), comprising former Janjaweed militias, has expanded its influence and is now involved in a range of criminal activities, including human trafficking and gold smuggling. The group has close ties to international mercenary groups and operates with impunity.

SUDAN’S GOVERNANCE CRISIS CONTINUES

Sudan’s governance crisis continues, with the transitional government dominated by the military. Protests have taken place, with activists demanding a civilian-led government. However, critics argue that the current agreement lacks a clear roadmap or detailed action plan.

CRIME AND SECURITY

  • Sudan’s judicial system is flawed, with a lack of specialized units to tackle organized crime.
  • The country’s vast and unpoliced land borders with Libya and the Central African Republic make it easy for illicit vehicles to enter undetected.
  • Cybersecurity remains a concern, with weaknesses in cooperative measures at the national, regional, and international levels.

ECONOMIC AND FINANCIAL ENVIRONMENT

  • Sudan’s economy is struggling, with poor governance, rigid labor markets, and limited rule of law hindering economic diversification.
  • The country lacks an efficient economic regulatory regime, leading to a largely informal economy.
  • The government’s decision to seize bank accounts linked to money laundering and terrorism financing has been revoked, raising concerns about the illicit flow of funds.

CIVIL SOCIETY AND SOCIAL PROTECTION

  • Sudan remains short of meeting minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons.
  • The government’s shelters for victims are in dire need of refurbishment, and there is a lack of trained mental health professionals to provide care.
  • Civil society organizations continue to be treated as government opposition, with security officials cracking down on peaceful protests. Journalists face permanent surveillance, electronic monitoring, and the threat of violence, leading to fatalities.

CALL TO ACTION

  • The international community must take note of Sudan’s governance crisis and address its shortcomings.
  • The country needs a stable and effective government that can tackle corruption, organized crime, and economic challenges.
  • In particular, the RSF’s criminal activities must be addressed, and its leaders held accountable for their involvement in corrupt practices.
  • Sudanese civil society organizations must be supported and protected from harassment and intimidation. Journalists must be allowed to operate freely without fear of persecution.
  • The international community must also provide financial assistance to Sudan to help it recover from its economic crisis and build a more stable future.